Outdoor Funky Podcast

Episode Summary In this episode, I talk about what it really feels like to start something new and why flow doesn’t show up right away. I reflect on learning to snowboard, stand up paddleboard, and ride a one wheel, and how each experience felt awkward, frustrating, and unsteady at the beginning. I share what was going on internally during those moments—the self-doubt, the mental chatter, and the...

Episode Summary In this episode, I open up about why I’m starting the Outdoor Funky Podcast again after stepping away from it. I reflect on how life, teaching, and other projects pulled my attention, even though I had meaningful outdoor experiences worth sharing. I take you back to a powerful stretch of time in Florida, where I spent days paddling different waters with no strict plan. Those moment...

The salient point of our discussion centers on the profound experience of visiting the Field of Dreams in Dyersville, Iowa, which embodies not merely a location but a nexus of connection, legacy, and wonder. This site, steeped in nostalgia, offers a unique opportunity for families to engage in simple yet meaningful activities, such as playing baseball amidst the tranquil backdrop of cornfields. We...

The salient focus of this podcast episode is the theme of resilience, encapsulated within the narrative of our distinguished guest, Cailee Conlon, as she embarks upon her solo journey through Ragbrai 52. Two years prior, she faced a formidable challenge when she had to withdraw from the ride due to a knee injury, a decision that weighed heavily upon her spirit. However, this year marks her triumph...

The episode centers on the recent completion of Ragbrai 52, a notable cycling event traversing the picturesque landscapes of Iowa. As we reflect upon our journey, I, alongside my esteemed guests Mya Kleve and Steele Welcher, share our experiences of covering an impressive 440 miles over the course of the week. The discussions delve into the challenges faced and the picturesque towns we encountered...

The salient point of this podcast episode centers on the experience of a short yet fulfilling ride during Ragbrai 52, encompassing a mere 38 miles from Dunkerton to Fairbank to Oliwin. Throughout this day, I, Nicholas Cleave, alongside my best friend and my daughter, Maya, embraced a recovery-oriented biking pace, allowing us to recuperate from the challenges of the preceding days. The morning com...

The salient point of today's discussion is the significance of incorporating reset days into long-distance biking journeys, particularly exemplified by our recent experience on day five of Wrightbride 52. Following a challenging previous day characterized by inclement weather and insufficient rest, we embarked on a rejuvenating ride through Iowa Falls to Cedar Falls, covering just over 50 miles un...

The primary focus of this podcast episode centers on the challenges and unexpected moments experienced during day four of the Ragbrai cycling event, featuring the reflections of Nicholas Kleve and Steele Welcher. As they navigated the arduous ride of 71 miles from Forest City to Iowa Falls, they encountered a relentless heat and formidable headwinds, which tested their endurance. Notably, Kleve re...

This podcast episode delves into the profound experience of undertaking day three of Ragbrai 52, aptly designated as the century day, wherein participants traverse over 100 miles of challenging terrain, grappling with formidable heat and relentless headwinds. The narrative unfolds through the lens of psychological strategies that facilitate the completion of such an arduous journey, emphasizing th...

The discussion centers on the exhilarating experience of Ragbrai 52, an epic cycling event traversing the scenic landscapes of Iowa. Notably, this year marks a historic occasion as the ride has ventured into Minnesota for the first time in its storied history. I, Nicholas Cleave, alongside my esteemed companions, Mya and Steele, delve into our day’s journey which included delightful culinary disco...

The inaugural episode of the Outdoor Funky Podcast features the esteemed Nicholas Kleve, known as Mr. Funky Teacher, as he embarks on a profound journey of exploration and connection through the legendary Ragbrai 52, a celebrated bike ride traversing the picturesque landscapes of Iowa. Central to our discussion is the essence of this experience, which transcends mere physical exertion; it embodies...

Welcome to the Outdoor Funky Podcast, where the wild meets the wonderful. I’m Nicholas Kleve—stand-up paddler, biker, camper, and full-time adventurer with a funky streak. This podcast is for outdoor-loving families, solo explorers, and anyone who finds joy in sleeping under the stars and sweating through a headwind. You’ll hear stories from bikepacking trips like RAGBRAI, SUP adventures through F...